Netflix's 'Mary': A Controversial Take on Biblical History
Netflix’s new film Mary has sparked considerable conversation, not for its strong performances or innovative direction, but rather for the confusing mix of themes and the backlash it’s received. The movie, which attempts to retell the story of Mary, the mother of Jesus, does so in a way that seems more focused on creating an action-packed thriller than faithfully exploring the historical or religious aspects of the story. The result? A film that falters in terms of both its narrative and the portrayal of its central character.
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Directed by D.J. Caruso, Mary stars Noa Cohen as the titular character, with Anthony Hopkins portraying Herod. The movie, produced by Joel Osteen—known for his evangelical messages—has drawn criticism for its portrayal of Mary and its heavy reliance on action, violence, and supernatural elements. The story unfolds in a way that attempts to blend the sacred with the sensational, presenting Mary as a heroic, larger-than-life figure. This Mary is not just the mother of Jesus; she is a mythic figure who everyone knows is destined for greatness, much like a protagonist from an action film.
The main issue with Mary is that it fails to convincingly meld these different elements. It’s unclear whether the film wants to be a thriller, a supernatural tale, or a historical drama, and the result is a jarring and confusing experience. The film’s structure jumps from one scene to another without giving viewers a clear connection to the plot. The violence feels gratuitous, as it is used more for shock value than to serve the story. Furthermore, the mystical events surrounding Mary’s life—like the appearances of angels and Lucifer—don’t blend naturally into the narrative. Instead, they seem like afterthoughts that distract from the film's deeper themes.
Additionally, the casting of Israeli actors, including Cohen and others, to play key roles has ignited controversy. Some critics argue that this casting choice, in an era of heightened political tension, is tone-deaf, especially in light of the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. Others have criticized the film’s historical inaccuracy, claiming that it takes too many liberties with the biblical account of Mary’s life. The film seems to be designed to cater to a specific audience, one that enjoys faith-based films but also desires a more action-packed, modern retelling of biblical events.
In the end, Mary struggles to deliver on its promise. While it may appeal to those looking for a quick, action-heavy faith-based film, it doesn’t offer much in terms of depth or thoughtful exploration of the religious story it aims to depict. With its mixed messages and superficial treatment of its characters, this film doesn’t live up to the legacy of other biblical films. It’s a missed opportunity to present a complex, human portrayal of Mary and the story of Jesus, instead opting for cinematic spectacle over substance.
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